Because no one logs more travel miles on Christmas Eve than Santa Claus, the Big Guy simply insists on being well prepared. That's why earlier this month, at Santa's request, the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) cleared St. Nick and his reindeer for all modes of travel in the state on Christmas Eve and awarded him an official Certificate of Travel Clearance.
MDOT staff thoroughly inspected Santa's extra wide sleigh load, ensuring it met all safety requirements. Permits were issued for his sack of toys surpassing posted weight limits, and Rudolph's nose so bright met, but did not exceed, the illumination threshold. All takeoffs and landings to and from the homes of good children have been approved, and exceptions were granted for any last-minute "Nice List" additions.
"Santa knows the importance of being prepared no matter how you choose to travel, and he's a staunch, yet jolly, safety advocate to boot," said Brad White, MDOT Executive Director. "Before Santa Claus comes to your town, make sure your elf-size family members always travel in car seats, wear your seatbelt and check it twice, and remember, he sees you when you're speeding, and he knows when you've been texting. Take it from Kris Kringle: Put safety first so everyone can have a Merry Christmas."
While at MDOT, Santa received reports on Mississippi drivers' conduct from elves Darryl and Cheryl. Sadly, elven intel suggests some of the state's motorists may receive a lump of coal this year. However, St. Nick insisted that with a few behavior adjustments and a sprinkle of Christmas spirit, even the most egregious drivers may be able to change their fate. Darryl and Cheryl also gifted Santa a reflective vest for extra safety and visibility along state highways.
Currently, conditions appear favorable for sleigh flight on Christmas Eve. Motorists are advised to drive slow and be alert for sleighs, reindeer and their white-tailed cousins after dark on Christmas Eve. Blitzened driving is strictly prohibited.
Stay updated with live traffic information by downloading the MDOT Traffic mobile app, visiting MDOTtraffic.com and following @MississippiDOT on Facebook and Twitter. Sleigh traffic version in beta.
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